As one of the 2016 Forty Under 40 recipients, Alyson joins 39 other deserving young professionals who are making the pet industry a brighter, more creative place.

At just 29 years old, Alyson brings a fresh perspective to our PR efforts. In her position, Alyson has planned and crafted impactful campaigns and programs for a host of Matrix clients including Andis animal clippers, Gold Paw Series premium dog wear, Angel Pet Supplies leather accessories, and Barkworthies natural chews. By collaborating with both digital and traditional media outlets, she has helped maximize brand exposure, as well as guide clients through a range of trade and consumer image-building strategies.

A graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a BA in Film and Video, Alyson spent her early post-college years as a production assistant at a prominent video post-production house and as a freelance video editor before shifting her focus in 2012 to public relations. It was then that Alyson discovered her true calling, quickly rising to the title of Senior Account Executive at a full-service, multi-disciplinary marketing firm. In 2015, she joined forces with Matrix Partners to help shape the winning personalities of several popular pet industry brands.

Beyond the office, Alyson keeps finding new outlets for her energy and creativity, including photography. In 2015, one of her photographs was featured on the inside album cover of the musician Pretty Lights’ vinyl LP!

Recently, Alyson worked closely with the Matrix social media team to help execute the “Chews Rescue” shelter campaign for Barkworthies. The campaign raised thousands of dollars for a local rescue and simultaneously more than doubled the brand’s audience on Facebook. During the campaign, Alyson secured 6.4 million impressions and more than 50 placements, including TV spots on the local ABC and NBC affiliates. Thanks to her media efforts and a complementary social media strategy, Barkworthies was able to help local rescue dogs and boost recognition of their brand.

“As a member of the Matrix PR team, I feel like I provide a two-way benefit: I help our clients showcase their products, and at the same time educate pet parents regarding the availability of new and innovative products for their pets’ health and happiness,” Alyson said. “Being recognized as one of Pet Age magazine’s Forty Under 40 recipients is an honor and it assures me that I’m making a difference for the industry.”

Alyson’s ambitious and upbeat attitude is apparent in every initiative she undertakes, and community involvement is no exception. She has made the rounds of several Chicago-area nursing homes with her beloved puggle sidekick, Penny Lane. She also helps Penny Lane paint holiday cards each year, which they send to sick children to brighten their hospital stays.

It’s no secret that our clients are amazing, but Pet Product News did all but shout it from the rooftops when they released the 2016 Editors’ Choice Awards. Unsurprisingly, our favorite brands are present in full force on this year’s list – take a look: